The Brazilian national team defeated Senegal 2-0, thrilling the 58,657 spectators at the Emirates Stadium in London, in the penultimate friendly match of the year. Although it wasn’t a match at stake, the game was intense and hard-fought.
The goals were scored by Estêvão and Casemiro, both in the first half. Senegal nearly scored, hitting the post in the second half after an error by Ederson.
Ancelotti’s substitutions proved effective against a strong opponent. The attacking quartet, with great mobility, fulfilled its purpose, and Militão, at full-back, was efficient both technically and tactically.
Despite the victory, the team had a scare when Gabriel Magalhães left the field. The defender was substituted in the second half after feeling an injury.
The team, which had never beaten Senegal before, broke a taboo against their African rivals and gave the match a World Cup feel. This was due not only to the fans’ euphoria, but mainly to their tenacious tackling, physical stamina, and tight marking.
The Brazilian national team will play again on Tuesday the 18th at 4:30 PM (Brasilia time) against Tunisia at the Decathlon Arena in Lille, France. The idea for this second match is to conduct further experiments.
Starting with ‘exchange’
The match began with high intensity, with both teams exchanging attacks. Brazil’s first shot on goal came in the first minute, courtesy of Vini Jr., after a precise pass from Estêvão. Senegal then had two good chances and also created danger, with incursions down the right flank.
The Brazilian pressure continued, and Estêvão struggled to finish after a play initiated by Vini Jr. on the left wing. Another good opportunity for the team came with a cross into the box that ended in a header, which Mendy again saved.
Even before the 10-minute mark, Vinicius was involved in another dangerous moment: the number 7 broke through the cross, cut inside, and fired a low shot, forcing the Senegalese goalkeeper into a great save.
A solid defense fosters creativity. The play that led to the team’s first goal, in the 26th minute, demonstrated the intelligence of Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical approach, which prioritized a four-man defense.
